I hadn't heard about Rival before I got this record in my hands. However, this record really impressed me and compelled me to listen it several times in a row. If you like classic intensive heavy metal and especially bands like Virgin Steele, Evergrey or Seven Witches, this record is a must have.

The singer John Johnson has a strong voice that fits perfectly in with the music. He has a flair similar to David Defeis of Virgin Steele although much less Defeis-like crows. The whole band plays well together (nice guitar solos and balanced drumwork). Nonetheless, the voice of John Johnson has been brought forth in production which seems to be a good choice.

The album is full of good songs. Hence, it is a fantastic album and definitively one of the best debuts of the year. Although the band was formed at Chicago in 1990, this is the band's first record of their first record deal - so I guess we can speak of a commercial debut here. Lack of originality is the only complaint I have but overall, this band should have a bright future ahead!



- broMizu (18.06.2004)

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LINE-UP:
Johnson, John: Bass, Vocals McNulty, Chuck: Guitar Olson, Gary: Drums Trivic, Neven: Guitar
Producer:	Unavailable
Mixing by:	Unavailable
Mastering by:	Unavailable

	TRACKLIST:
	01. State of Mind 02. Extreme Aggression 03. Reach 04. Insane 05. Tyrants 06. Brink 07. Remember You 08. Lord of the Knights 09. Hell Train